Our world is an amazing and adventurous place, which is waiting for the thrill lovers to be explored. Among such places is the mysterious underwater world. To explore the unknown and feel the adrenaline rush in their veins many go down into the deep. This makes them witness the beautiful and mesmerizing marine life, with the technique called Split face diving, also known as “divided-face” diving. The adventure satisfies the desire of thrill, however, ‘diving’ has its own severe consequences. Let’s take a deep dive to know if the diving is dangerous and know the safety precautions and techniques……

What is Split-Face Diving?

Split-face diving is a bit like blending the best of snorkeling and scuba diving. When you’re split-face diving, you’ve got half your face in the fresh air and the other half underwater. It’s like getting the comfort of snorkeling and the chance to explore deeper waters, just like a scuba diver, all in one fantastic experience.

Some Accidents 

• In 2017, a 29-year-old man died while split face diving in the Bahamas. The man was found unconscious underwater and could not be resuscitated. An autopsy revealed that he had died from CO2 buildup.
• In 2021, a 32-year-old woman suffered barotrauma to the ears while split-face diving in Egypt. The woman was unable to equalize pressure in her ears and experienced severe pain and bleeding. She was taken to a hospital for treatment, but she lost some hearing in one ear.

Training Procedure

• Start by finding an experienced instructor or a reputable training center. They should be qualified and knowledgeable to guide you through split face diving.
• Get to know what the course will involve before you dive in. Learn about what to expect and any necessary preparations.
• Begin your training in a classroom setting where you’ll learn about equipment, safety procedures, equalization techniques, and how to handle emergencies.
• Practice in a controlled environment, such as a pool. Here, you’ll become familiar with your gear and build confidence in your abilities.
• Apply what you’ve learned in a real underwater setting. Practice transitioning from snorkeling to diving and explore the underwater world.
• Throughout your training, you’ll learn to dive with a buddy, ensuring mutual safety and support.
• Your instructor will assess your skills during open water training. This includes switching between snorkeling and diving, equalization, and handling common underwater situations.
• Once you’ve demonstrated your competence, you’ll receive a certification, indicating your ability to engage in split-face diving safely. It’s like your license for underwater adventures.

Safety precautions for split-face diving:

• Get proper training: 

Being trained from a qualified instructor before attempting split face diving. This training should include instruction on how to equalize pressure properly and how to breathe properly through the non-exposed side of the face.

• Use the right equipment: 

When split-face diving, it’s crucial to have the correct equipment. One way to do this is to wear a mask made for the purpose. In addition, you should routinely inspect your machinery to ensure it is in fine working shape.

• Dive with a buddy: 

A diving partner makes everything easier. Because if something goes wrong while you’re underwater, your buddy can help you out.

• Be aware of your surroundings: 

Keep your eyes open and your ears on during split-face diving. The water’s depth, the tides, and the marine life are all factors to keep in mind.

• Start slowly:

Split-face diving is an advanced technique, therefore beginners should ease into it. Start your scuba diving adventures in shallow water and work your way up to deeper depths as your confidence grows.

Specific things you can do in case of a common diving emergency:

Barotrauma: 

You must ascend to the surface and get medical help right once if you have barotrauma. Severe damage can be done to the ear, sinuses, and lungs by barotrauma.

CO2 buildup: 

CO2 accumulation necessitates immediate ascent to the surface for fresh air. Symptoms include lightheadedness, fatigue, and headaches.

While being a part of any exercise or sport, it is for your own benefit to learn it thoroughly, to enjoy the fullest.